Close to home, but worlds away! By Kathy Casstevens, marketing manager at Starved Rock Lodge | Photos provided by Starved Rock Lodge
Where We Live
ne-tank getaways are trending! So, when you’re looking for a place to go that’s more than a day trip, Starved Rock Lodge is that place. You can stay in the historic Lodge or choose a cabin in the woods. Both are close to the indoor pool complex, dining room, Café, Gift Shop, outdoor dining on the Veranda and the Back Door Lounge.
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Land & Water Cruises run every Monday, Wednesday and Friday (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Tickets are $55 per person. This is a great way to enjoy lunch in the air-conditioned historic dining room. After lunch, you’ll board the Starved Rock Trolley and travel through Starved Rock State Park, then take a ride on the Eagle 1. One-hour Illinois River Cruises are offered on Saturday and Sunday at 1 and 2 p.m. Tickets are $32 per person. The best way to see the area is on the combo tour called “Visit a Canyon & a Boat Ride” offered on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (a snack, bottled water and souvenir drawstring backpack are included). NEIGHBORHOOD TOURIST
SUMMER 2022
Tickets are $50 per person. This tour includes a trolley ride, guided hike to see amazing examples of St. Peter Sandstone at Council Overhang and Ottawa Canyon, plus a boat ride along the Illinois River. Guided hikes also are offered each weekend. Departure time is 10 a.m. and lunch (in a drawstring backpack) is included for $22 per person. Historic Trolley Tours are offered on Monday, Wednesday and Friday (3 p.m. departure). Tickets are $15 per person. Reservations are required for all tours and hikes. Book online or call 815220-7386. Whether it’s a family reunion, corporate retreat or a dream wedding, Starved Rock Lodge is set in the middle of glacier-cut canyons, seasonal waterfalls and amazing bluff views. Overnight packages are outlined on the Lodge’s website. Priority parking is included with every room booking. Wi-Fi is free. The Veranda offers an amazing, panoramic view of the scenic Illinois
River Valley. Locally made craft beer is on tap from Tangled Roots Brewing Company, or try Starved Rock Signature Ale. The Grill Menu includes salads, grilled brats, burgers and more. There’s even a “Doggie Delights” Menu for your furry friends, who are welcome in dedicated sections of the Veranda. If you’d rather cool off inside, the Back Door Lounge and Main Dining Room serve lunch and dinner daily. Live music runs every Friday night from 8 to 11 p.m. on the Veranda. Sunsets are photo worthy. The atmosphere is laid-back and relaxing. The Café is the place to go for delicious fudge and artisan ice cream made at the Lodge. The best indoor activity is one of the Tribute to the Stars shows in the cool comfort of the historic Great Hall, where talented tribute artists take you on a walk down memory lane. All matinees include a buffet lunch. Prices vary per show. Details are on the Lodge’s website. Learn more at www.starvedrocklodge. com or call toll-free at 1-800-868-7625.
